Viticulturist - Premium Wine Estate Operations

Placements24; Centurion; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary and incentives

Professional development & industry曝光

Wine collection access & tasting

Job summary

Placements24 in Centurion, Gauteng, invites an experienced Viticulturist to lead vineyard operations, combining hands-on cultivation with strategic planning for premium wine quality. You will oversee planting, canopy management, irrigation, pest control, and harvest coordination, while collaborating with the winemaker to meet varietal targets.

This hybrid role requires a degree in Viticulture and at least six years in vineyard management.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Viticulture, Horticulture, Agricultural Science, or related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of progressive vineyard management experience in premium wine regions.
• In-depth knowledge of grape varietals, soils, climate influences and vineyard diseases.
• Experience with irrigation, pest and disease management, canopy management and harvest planning.

Responsibilities

• Manage all vineyard operations including planting, pruning, trellising, and irrigation.
• Conduct soil and vine health assessments; address pests, diseases and nutrient deficiencies.
• Develop and implement IPM and disease control strategies.
• Oversee irrigation scheduling and water resource management.
• Plan and manage harvest operations; coordinate labour and pick timing.
• Maintain records of vineyard activities, inputs and yields; collaborate with winemaker.
• Research and implement innovative viticultural techniques for sustainability.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Analytical skills

Data interpretation

Problem solving

Vineyard software

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Viticulture

Tools

Vineyard management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned premium wine estate in the picturesque Centurion, Gauteng region, is seeking an experienced and passionate Viticulturist to join their esteemed team. This role blends hands‑on vineyard management with strategic planning, requiring a blend of scientific knowledge and practical agricultural expertise. You will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of grape cultivation, from soil preparation and vine planting to canopy management, pest control, and harvesting, with a focus on producing grapes of exceptional quality for world‑class wines. This position offers a hybrid work model, allowing for dedicated time on the estate and flexible remote work for analysis and reporting. You will play a crucial role in maintaining and enhancing the estate's reputation for producing outstanding varietals, ensuring the long‑term health and productivity of the vineyards.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage all vineyard operations, including planting, pruning, trellising, and irrigation, to optimize grape quality and yield.
• Conduct regular soil and vine health assessments, identifying and addressing any issues related to pests, diseases, or nutrient deficiencies.
• Develop and implement integrated pest management (IPM) and disease control strategies.
• Oversee irrigation scheduling and water resource management to ensure optimal vine hydration.
• Plan and manage harvest operations, coordinating labor and ensuring grapes are picked at peak ripeness.
• Maintain accurate records of vineyard activities, inputs, and yield data.
• Collaborate with the winemaker to understand varietal needs and quality targets.
• Research and implement innovative viticultural techniques to improve grape quality and vineyard sustainability.
• Manage vineyard staff, providing training, supervision, and fostering a positive work environment.
• Ensure compliance with all environmental regulations and sustainable farming practices.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Viticulture, Horticulture, Agricultural Science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of progressive experience in vineyard management, preferably within a premium wine‑producing region.
• In‑depth knowledge of grape varietals, soil types, climate influences, and vineyard diseases.
• Proven experience with irrigation systems, pest and disease management, and canopy management techniques.
• Familiarity with winemaking processes and the impact of viticulture on wine quality.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills, with the ability to interpret vineyard data.
• Excellent leadership and team management abilities.
• Proficiency in relevant software for vineyard management and data analysis.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel within the estate and surrounding areas.
• A passion for wine and a commitment to producing high‑quality grapes.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance‑related incentives.
• Opportunities for professional development and international wine industry exposure.
• Access to a comprehensive wine collection and tasting events.
• Beautiful working environment on a prestigious wine estate.
• Hybrid work arrangement offering flexibility.
• Medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Paid time off and annual leave.
• Potential for career growth within the winemaking and agricultural sector.
• Company vehicle for business use.
• Employee discounts on estate products.